Coated Substrates and Methods of Preparing the Same

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein are coated articles and methods of preparing the same.

CROSS-REFERENCE

This application claims the benefit of PCT Application No.PCT/US10/44011, filed Jul. 30, 2010, which application is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

GRAS materials are materials that are regarded by experts as safe forhuman consumption. GRAS materials are exempt from the Federal Food,Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) food additive tolerance requirements.GRAS coatings are coatings that are safe for human consumption. GRAScoatings can be applied to food or applied to food packaging.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

We recognize that there is a need for coating compositions that protectfood from outside elements (e.g., moisture and oxidation) and that aresafe for human consumption. We further recognize that there is a needfor coated articles that protect food from outside elements (e.g.,moisture and oxidation) and that can be safely contacted with food. Atthis time there are very few such coating compositions. Disclosedherein, are coating compositions that protect food from outside elements(e.g., moisture and oxidation) and that are safe for human consumption.Further disclosed herein are coated articles that protect food fromoutside elements (e.g., moisture and oxidation) and that can be safelycontacted with food.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a polypeptide, wherein the polypeptide is selected from:cysteine, albumin, transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, or combinationsthereof, and (ii) a denaturing agent; and (b) curing and cross-linkingthe composition by exposing the composition to shortwave actinicradiation to form a coated article; wherein the temperature of thecomposition during the curing process is less than about 70° C.; andwherein the composition does not coagulate during the curing process. Insome embodiments, the composition further comprises a polar solvent. Insome embodiments, the polar solvent is water. In some embodiments, thecomposition is safe for human consumption, safe for contact with food,or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the curing comprisesexposing the composition to actinic radiation having a wavelength fromabout 200 nm to about 400 nm. In some embodiments, the curing comprisesexposing the composition to actinic radiation having a wavelength ofabout 280 nm. In some embodiments, the composition further comprises anacid. In some embodiments, the composition further comprises:2,3-dihydroxysuccinic acid; ethanoic acid; 3-hydroxypentanedioic acid;salts thereof; partial salts thereof; or combinations thereof. In someembodiments, the polar solvent has a pH of about 7 or below. In someembodiments, the composition further comprises a natural gum, aflavoring agent, a dye, a de-foaming agent, or a combination thereof. Insome embodiments, the composition further comprises maltodextrin, anoil, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the substrate ispaper, plastic, metal, food, or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the polypeptide is provided in the form of a powder.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a coated articlecomprising: (a) a substrate; and (b) a polypeptide composition, whereinthe polypeptide composition comprises a polypeptide selected from:cysteine, albumin, transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, or combinationsthereof coating the substrate; and wherein the polypeptide compositionis cross-linked after coating the substrate; and wherein the polypeptidecomposition is not coagulated. In some embodiments, the polypeptidecomposition further comprises a polar solvent. In some embodiments, thepolypeptide composition further comprises water. In some embodiments,the polypeptide composition further comprises a denaturing agent. Insome embodiments, the polypeptide composition is safe for humanconsumption, safe for contact with food, or a combination thereof. Insome embodiments, cross-linking the polypeptide composition comprisesexposing the polypeptide composition to shortwave actinic radiation. Insome embodiments, cross-linking the polypeptide composition comprisesexposing the polypeptide composition to actinic radiation having awavelength from about 200 nm to about 400 nm. In some embodiments,cross-linking the polypeptide composition comprises exposing thepolypeptide composition to actinic radiation having a wavelength ofabout 280 nm. In some embodiments, the polypeptide composition furthercomprises an acid. In some embodiments, the polypeptide compositionfurther comprises: 2,3-dihydroxysuccinic acid; ethanoic acid;3-hydroxypentanedioic acid; salts thereof; partial salts thereof; orcombinations thereof. In some embodiments, the polar solvent has a pH ofabout 7 or below. In some embodiments, the polypeptide compositionfurther comprises a natural gum, a flavoring agent, a dye, a de-foamingagent, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the polypeptidecomposition further comprises maltodextrin, an oil, or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, the substrate is impregnated with thecomposition. In some embodiments, the substrate is paper, plastic,metal, food, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, thepolypeptide is in the form of a powder.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a monomer, an oligomer, or a combination thereof, and(i) a polypeptide, wherein the polypeptide is selected from: cysteine,albumin, transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, or combinations thereof; and(b) curing and cross-linking the composition by exposing the compositionto shortwave actinic radiation to form a coated substrate; wherein thetemperature of the composition during the curing process is less thanabout 70° C.; and wherein the composition does not coagulate during thecuring process. In some embodiments, the composition is safe for humanconsumption, safe for contact with food, or a combination thereof. Insome embodiments, the monomer is trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA),ethoxylated TMPTA (TMPTEOA), tripropylene glycol diacrylate (TRPGDA), ora combination thereof. In some embodiments, the oligomer is epoxydiacrylate. In some embodiments, the composition further comprises: aphotoinitiator, a diluent, a surfactant, a pigment dispersion, a naturalgum, a dye, a de-foaming agent, or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the composition further comprises maltodextrin, an oil, ora combination thereof. In some embodiments, the curing comprisesexposing the composition to actinic radiation having a wavelength fromabout 200 nm to about 400 nm. In some embodiments, the curing comprisesexposing the composition to actinic radiation having a wavelength ofabout 280 nm. In some embodiments, coating comprises impregnating thesubstrate with the composition. In some embodiments, the substrate ispaper, plastic, metal, food, or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the polypeptide is in the form of a powder.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a coated articlecomprising: (a) a substrate; and (b) a composition coating the substratecomprising: (i) a cross-linked monomer, oligomer, or a combinationthereof, and (ii) a polypeptide selected from cysteine, albumin,transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, or combinations thereof; wherein thecomposition is cross-linked after coating the substrate, and wherein thecomposition is not coagulated. In some embodiments, the composition issafe for human consumption, safe for contact with food, or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, the monomer is trimethylolpropanetriacrylate (TMPTA), ethoxylated TMPTA (TMPTEOA), tripropylene glycoldiacrylate (TRPGDA), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, thecomposition further comprises: a diluent, a surfactant, a pigmentdispersion, a natural gum, a flavoring agent, a dye, a de-foaming agent,or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the composition furthercomprises maltodextrin, an oil, or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, cross-linking the composition comprises exposing thecomposition to shortwave actinic radiation. In some embodiments,cross-linking the composition comprises exposing the composition toactinic radiation having a wavelength from about 200 nm to about 400 nm.In some embodiments, cross-linking the composition comprises exposingthe composition to actinic radiation having a wavelength of about 280nm. In some embodiments, the substrate is impregnated with thecomposition. In some embodiments, the substrate is paper, plastic,metal, food, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, thepolypeptide is provided in the form of a powder.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a polypeptide, wherein the polypeptide is selected from:cysteine, albumin, transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, or combinationsthereof, and (ii) a denaturing agent; and (b) curing and cross-linkingthe composition by exposing the composition to shortwave actinicradiation to form a coated article; wherein the temperature of thecomposition during the curing process is less than about 70° C.; andwherein the composition does not coagulate during the curing process. Insome embodiments, the composition further comprises a polar solvent. Insome embodiments, the polar solvent is water. In some embodiments, thecomposition is safe for human consumption, safe for contact with food,or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the curing comprisesexposing the composition to actinic radiation having a wavelength fromabout 200 nm to about 400 nm. In some embodiments, the curing comprisesexposing the composition to actinic radiation having a wavelength ofabout 280 nm. In some embodiments, the composition further comprises anacid. In some embodiments, the composition further comprises:2,3-dihydroxysuccinic acid; ethanoic acid; 3-hydroxypentanedioic acid;salts thereof partial salts thereof or combinations thereof. In someembodiments, the polar solvent has a pH of about 7 or below. In someembodiments, the composition further comprises a natural gum, aflavoring agent, a dye, a de-foaming agent, or a combination thereof. Insome embodiments, the composition further comprises maltodextrin, anoil, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the substrate ispaper, plastic, metal, food, or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the polypeptide is provided in the form of a powder.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a coated articlecomprising: (a) a substrate; and (b) a polypeptide composition, whereinthe polypeptide composition comprises a polypeptide selected from:cysteine, albumin, transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, or combinationsthereof coating the substrate; and wherein the polypeptide compositionis cross-linked after coating the substrate; and wherein the polypeptidecomposition is not coagulated. In some embodiments, the polypeptidecomposition further comprises a polar solvent. In some embodiments, thepolypeptide composition further comprises water. In some embodiments,the polypeptide composition further comprises a denaturing agent. Insome embodiments, the polypeptide composition is safe for humanconsumption, safe for contact with food, or a combination thereof. Insome embodiments, cross-linking the polypeptide composition comprisesexposing the polypeptide composition to shortwave actinic radiation. Insome embodiments, cross-linking the polypeptide composition comprisesexposing the polypeptide composition to actinic radiation having awavelength from about 200 nm to about 400 nm. In some embodiments,cross-linking the polypeptide composition comprises exposing thepolypeptide composition to actinic radiation having a wavelength ofabout 280 nm. In some embodiments, the polypeptide composition furthercomprises an acid. In some embodiments, the polypeptide compositionfurther comprises: 2,3-dihydroxysuccinic acid; ethanoic acid;3-hydroxypentanedioic acid; salts thereof; partial salts thereof; orcombinations thereof. In some embodiments, the polar solvent has a pH ofabout 7 or below. In some embodiments, the polypeptide compositionfurther comprises a natural gum, a flavoring agent, a dye, a de-foamingagent, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the polypeptidecomposition further comprises maltodextrin, an oil, or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, the substrate is impregnated with thecomposition. In some embodiments, the substrate is paper, plastic,metal, food, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, thepolypeptide is in the form of a powder.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a monomer, an oligomer, or a combination thereof, and(i) a polypeptide, wherein the polypeptide is selected from: cysteine,albumin, transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, or combinations thereof; and(b) curing and cross-linking the composition by exposing the compositionto shortwave actinic radiation to form a coated substrate; wherein thetemperature of the composition during the curing process is less thanabout 70° C.; and wherein the composition does not coagulate during thecuring process. In some embodiments, the composition is safe for humanconsumption, safe for contact with food, or a combination thereof. Insome embodiments, the monomer is trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA),ethoxylated TMPTA (TMPTEOA), tripropylene glycol diacrylate (TRPGDA), ora combination thereof. In some embodiments, the oligomer is epoxydiacrylate. In some embodiments, the composition further comprises: aphotoinitiator, a diluent, a surfactant, a pigment dispersion, a naturalgum, a dye, a de-foaming agent, or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the composition further comprises maltodextrin, an oil, ora combination thereof. In some embodiments, the curing comprisesexposing the composition to actinic radiation having a wavelength fromabout 200 nm to about 400 nm. In some embodiments, the curing comprisesexposing the composition to actinic radiation having a wavelength ofabout 280 nm. In some embodiments, coating comprises impregnating thesubstrate with the composition. In some embodiments, the substrate ispaper, plastic, metal, food, or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, the polypeptide is in the form of a powder.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a coated articlecomprising: (a) a substrate; and (b) a composition coating the substratecomprising: (i) a cross-linked monomer, oligomer; or a combinationthereof, and (ii) a polypeptide selected from cysteine, albumin,transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, or combinations thereof; wherein thecomposition is cross-linked after coating the substrate, and wherein thecomposition is not coagulated. In some embodiments, the composition issafe for human consumption, safe for contact with food, or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, the monomer is trimethylolpropanetriacrylate (TMPTA), ethoxylated TMPTA (TMPTEOA), tripropylene glycoldiacrylate (TRPGDA), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, thecomposition further comprises: a diluent, a surfactant, a pigmentdispersion, a natural gum, a flavoring agent, a dye, a de-foaming agent,or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the composition furthercomprises maltodextrin, an oil, or a combination thereof. In someembodiments, cross-linking the composition comprises exposing thecomposition to shortwave actinic radiation. In some embodiments,cross-linking the composition comprises exposing the composition toactinic radiation having a wavelength from about 200 nm to about 400 nm.In some embodiments, cross-linking the composition comprises exposingthe composition to actinic radiation having a wavelength of about 280nm. In some embodiments, the substrate is impregnated with thecomposition. In some embodiments, the substrate is paper, plastic,metal, food, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, thepolypeptide is provided in the form of a powder.

Polypeptides as Self-linking Components

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a sulfur-containing biological molecule, and (ii) adenaturing agent; and (b) curing and cross-linking the composition byexposing the composition to shortwave actinic radiation to form a coatedarticle; wherein the temperature of the composition during the curingprocess is less than about 70° C.; and wherein the composition does notcoagulate during the curing process. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule is a self-linking component (i.e.,it serves as both photoinitiator and the molecule that is cross-linked).In some embodiments, where the sulfur-containing biological molecule isutilized as a self-linking component, the composition does not comprisea monomer, oligomer, or a photoinitiator that is not the aforementionedsulfur-containing biological molecule utilized in the composition.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a polypeptide, wherein the polypeptide is selected from:cysteine, albumin, transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, or combinationsthereof, and (ii) a denaturing agent; and (b) curing and cross-linkingthe composition by exposing the composition to shortwave actinicradiation to form a coated article; wherein the temperature of thecomposition during the curing process is less than about 70° C.; andwherein the composition does not coagulate during the curing process. Insome embodiments, the polypeptide is a self-linking component (i.e., itserves as both photoinitiator and the molecule that is cross-linked). Insome embodiments, where the polypeptide is utilized as a self-linkingcomponent, the composition does not comprise a monomer, oligomer, or aphotoinitiator that is not the aforementioned sulfur-containingbiological molecule utilized in the composition.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a plant-derived sulfur containing compound, and (ii) adenaturing agent; and (b) curing and cross-linking the composition byexposing the composition to shortwave actinic radiation to form a coatedarticle; wherein the temperature of the composition during the curingprocess is less than about 70° C.; and wherein the composition does notcoagulate during the curing process. In some embodiments, theplant-derived sulfur containing compound is a self-linking component(i.e., it serves as both photoinitiator and the molecule that iscross-linked). In some embodiments, where the plant-derived sulfurcontaining compound is utilized as a self-linking component, thecomposition does not comprise a monomer, oligomer, or a photoinitiatorthat is not the aforementioned sulfur-containing biological moleculeutilized in the composition.

Further disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a coated articlecomprising: (a) a substrate; and (b) a cross-linked sulfur-containingbiological molecule composition coating the substrate; and wherein thecomposition is not coagulated.

Further disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a coated articlecomprising: (a) a substrate; and (b) a cross-linked polypeptidecomposition selected from cross-linked albumin, cross-linkedtransferrin, cross-linked ovomucin, cross-linked lysozyme, orcombinations thereof coating the substrate; and wherein the compositionis not coagulated.

Further disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a coated articlecomprising: (a) a substrate; and (b) a cross-linked plant-derived sulfurcontaining compound composition coating the substrate; and wherein thecomposition is not coagulated.

Polypeptides as Photoinitiators

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a monomer, an oligomer, or a combination thereof, and(ii) a sulfur-containing biological molecule; and (b) curing andcross-linking the composition by exposing the composition to shortwaveactinic radiation to form a coated substrate; wherein the temperature ofthe composition during the curing process is less than about 70° C.; andwherein the composition does not coagulate during the curing process. Insome embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is utilizedas a photoinitiator. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingbiological molecule is utilized as a booster with an additionalphotoinitiator.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a monomer, an oligomer, or a combination thereof, and(ii) a polypeptide, wherein the polypeptide is selected from: cysteine,albumin, transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, or combinations thereof; and(b) curing and cross-linking the composition by exposing the compositionto shortwave actinic radiation to form a coated substrate; wherein thetemperature of the composition during the curing process is less thanabout 70° C.; and wherein the composition does not coagulate during thecuring process. In some embodiments, the polypeptide is utilized as aphotoinitiator. In some embodiments, the polypeptide is utilized as abooster with an additional photoinitiator.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a monomer, an oligomer, or a combination thereof, and(ii) a plant-derived sulfur-containing compound, wherein theplant-derived sulfur-containing compound is derived from: a garlic love,an onion, a leek, or combinations thereof; and (b) curing andcross-linking the composition by exposing the composition to shortwaveactinic radiation to form a coated substrate; wherein the temperature ofthe composition during the curing process is less than about 70° C.; andwherein the composition does not coagulate during the curing process. Insome embodiments, the plant-derived sulfur-containing compound isutilized as a photoinitiator. In some embodiments, the plant-derivedsulfur-containing compound is utilized as a booster with an additionalphotoinitiator.

Further disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a coated articlecomprising: (a) a substrate; and (b) a composition coating the substratecomprising: (i) a cross-linked monomer, oligomer, or a combinationthereof, and (ii) a sulfur-containing biological molecule; and whereinthe composition is not coagulated.

Further disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a coated articlecomprising: (a) a substrate; and (b) a composition coating the substratecomprising: (i) a cross-linked monomer, oligomer, or a combinationthereof, and (ii) a polypeptide selected from cysteine, albumin,transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, or combinations thereof; and whereinthe composition is not coagulated.

Further disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a coated articlecomprising: (a) a substrate; and (b) a composition coating the substratecomprising: (i) a cross-linked monomer, oligomer, or a combinationthereof, and (ii) a plant-derived sulfur-containing compound derivedfrom: a garlic clove, an onion, a leek or combinations thereof; andwherein the composition is not coagulated.

Recognized as Safe for Human Consumption

In some embodiments, a coating composition disclosed herein is safe forhuman consumption or safe for contact with food. In some embodiments, acoating or coated article is classified as GRAS. As used herein, “GRAS”or “Generally Regarded as Safe” means an FDA designated substance thatis considered safe for human consumption and is thus exempted from theFederal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) food additive tolerancerequirements.

Where the coating or coated article is intended to be safe for humanconsumption or safe for contact with food, all components must be safefor human consumption or safe for contact with food. In someembodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule and substrate aresafe for human consumption or safe for contact with food. In someembodiments, the polypeptide and substrate are safe for humanconsumption or safe for contact with food. In some embodiments, theplant-derived sulfur-containing compound and substrate are safe forhuman consumption or safe for contact with food. Where the coatingcomposition further comprises a denaturing agent, the denaturing agentis safe for human consumption or safe for contact with food. Where thecoating composition further comprises a monomer and/or oligomer, themonomer and/or oligomer is safe for human consumption or safe forcontact with food. Wherein the coating composition further comprises anadditional component selected from: a nano-filler, a diluent, asurfactant, a pigment dispersion, a natural gum, a flavoring agent, adye, a de-foaming agent, or a combination thereof; the additionalcomponent is safe for human consumption or safe for contact with food.

Where the coating or coated article is not intended to be safe for humanconsumption or safe for contact with food, none of the components mustbe safe for human consumption or safe for contact with food. Where thecoating or coated article is not intended to be GRAS, any of thecomponents may be safe for human consumption or safe for contact withfood.

Sulfur-Containing Biological Molecules

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a sulfur-containing biological molecule, and (ii) adenaturing agent; and (b) curing and cross-linking the composition byexposing the composition to shortwave actinic radiation to form a coatedarticle; wherein the temperature of the composition during the curingprocess is less than about 70° C.; and wherein the composition does notcoagulate during the curing process.

Disclosed herein, in certain embodiments, is a method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a monomer, an oligomer, or a combination thereof, and(ii) a sulfur-containing biological molecule; and (b) curing andcross-linking the composition by exposing the composition to shortwaveactinic radiation to form a coated substrate; wherein the temperature ofthe composition during the curing process is less than about 70° C.; andwherein the composition does not coagulate during the curing process.

As used herein, “sulfur-containing biological molecule” means a molecule(e.g., a polypeptide, an amino acid) that is obtained from a naturalsource (e.g., a plant, or an animal). In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule is derived from an animal. In someembodiments, the sulfur containing molecule is derived from albumen. Insome embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is derivedfrom a plant.

In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is asulfur containing amino acid. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingmolecule is cysteine. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingbiological molecule is any biological (e.g., naturally-occurring)molecule with a thiol group (also known as a sulfhydryl group). As usedherein, a thiol group means a functional group composed of a sulfur atomand a hydrogen atom (—SH). In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingbiological molecule is any polypeptide with a thiol group. In someembodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is anynaturally-occurring molecule with a cysteine. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule is any naturally-occurringpolypeptide with a cysteine.

In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is safefor human consumption or safe for contact with food. In someembodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is found on thelist of GRAS components issued by the FDA.

In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is apolypeptide obtained from albumen. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule is a polypeptide selected from:albumin, transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, or combinations thereof. Insome embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is apolypeptide selected from: albumin, transferrin, and ovomucin. In someembodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is a polypeptideselected from: albumin and transferrin. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule is a polypeptide selected from:albumin and ovomucin. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingbiological molecule is a polypeptide selected from: albumin andlysozyme. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological moleculeis a polypeptide selected from: transferrin and ovomucin. In someembodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is a polypeptideselected from: transferrin and lysozyme. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule is a polypeptide selected from:ovomucin and lysozyme. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingbiological molecule is albumin. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule is ovomucin. In some embodiments,the sulfur-containing biological molecule is transferrin. In someembodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is lysozyme. Insome embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is cysteine.

In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule isobtained from a plant. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingbiological molecule is obtained from an onion. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule is obtained from a leek. In someembodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is obtained fromgarlic.

In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule isdehydrated before being used to make a coating disclosed herein. In someembodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule is provided inthe form of a powder (e.g., the sulfur-containing biological molecule iscontained within powdered albumen). In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule is provided as a lyophilizedpowder. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological moleculeis pasteurized before being dehydrated.

In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule comprisesabout 99% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule comprises about 98% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingbiological molecule comprises about 97% w/w of the coating composition.In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule comprisesabout 96% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule comprises about 95% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingbiological molecule comprises about 94% w/w of the coating composition.In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule comprisesabout 93% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule comprises about 92% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingbiological molecule comprises about 91% w/w of the coating composition.In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule comprisesabout 90% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule comprises about 85% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingbiological molecule comprises about 80% w/w of the coating composition.In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule comprisesabout 75% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule comprises about 70% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingbiological molecule comprises about 65% w/w of the coating composition.In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule comprisesabout 60% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, thesulfur-containing biological molecule comprises about 50% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the sulfur-containingbiological molecule comprises about 40% w/w of the coating composition.In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule comprisesabout 30% w/w of the coating composition.

In some embodiments, the polypeptide comprises about 99% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the polypeptide comprisesabout 98% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, thepolypeptide comprises about 97% w/w of the coating composition. In someembodiments, the polypeptide comprises about 96% w/w of the coatingcomposition. In some embodiments, the polypeptide comprises about 95%w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, the polypeptidecomprises about 94% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments,the polypeptide comprises about 93% w/w of the coating composition. Insome embodiments, the polypeptide comprises about 92% w/w of the coatingcomposition. In some embodiments, the polypeptide comprises about 91%w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, the polypeptidecomprises about 90% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments,the polypeptide comprises about 85% w/w of the coating composition. Insome embodiments, the polypeptide comprises about 80% w/w of the coatingcomposition. In some embodiments, the polypeptide comprises about 75%w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, the polypeptidecomprises about 70% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments,the polypeptide comprises about 65% w/w of the coating composition. Insome embodiments, the polypeptide comprises about 60% w/w of the coatingcomposition. In some embodiments, the polypeptide comprises about 50%w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, the polypeptidecomprises about 40% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments,the polypeptide comprises about 30% w/w of the coating composition.

In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfur containing compoundcomprises about 99% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments,the plant-derived sulfur containing compound comprises about 98% w/w ofthe coating composition. In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfurcontaining compound comprises about 97% w/w of the coating composition.In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfur containing compoundcomprises about 96% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments,the plant-derived sulfur containing compound comprises about 95% w/w ofthe coating composition. In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfurcontaining compound comprises about 94% w/w of the coating composition.In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfur containing compoundcomprises about 93% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments,the plant-derived sulfur containing compound comprises about 92% w/w ofthe coating composition. In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfurcontaining compound comprises about 91% w/w of the coating composition.In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfur containing compoundcomprises about 90% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments,the plant-derived sulfur containing compound comprises about 85% w/w ofthe coating composition. In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfurcontaining compound comprises about 80% w/w of the coating composition.In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfur containing compoundcomprises about 75% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments,the plant-derived sulfur containing compound comprises about 70% w/w ofthe coating composition. In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfurcontaining compound comprises about 65% w/w of the coating composition.In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfur containing compoundcomprises about 60% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments,the plant-derived sulfur containing compound comprises about 50% w/w ofthe coating composition. In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfurcontaining compound comprises about 40% w/w of the coating composition.In some embodiments, the plant-derived sulfur containing compoundcomprises about 30% w/w of the coating composition.

Denaturing Agents

In some embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule isdenatured such that the thiol groups are exposed. In some embodiments,the polypeptide is denatured such that the thiol groups are exposed. Insome embodiments, the plant-derived sulphur containing compound isdenatured such that the thiol groups are exposed. In some embodiments,the sulfur-containing biological molecule is denatured by an agent(i.e., the denaturing agent) that is safe for human consumption or safefor contact with food. In some embodiments, the polypeptide is denaturedby an agent (i.e., the denaturing agent) that is safe for humanconsumption or safe for contact with food. In some embodiments, theplant-derived sulphur containing compound is denatured by an agent(i.e., the denaturing agent) that is safe for human consumption or safefor contact with food. In some embodiments, the denaturing agent isfound on the list of GRAS components issued by the FDA.

In some embodiments, the denaturing agent is an acid. In someembodiments, the denaturing agent is 2,3-dihydroxysuccinic acid (alsoknown as tartaric acid); ethanoic acid (also known as acetic acid);3-hydroxypentanedioic acid (also known as citric acid); salts thereof;partial salts thereof; or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, thedenaturing agent is vinegar. In some embodiments, the denaturing agentis lemon juice. In some embodiments, the denaturing agent is a compoundwith the formula KC₄H_(S)O₆ (also known as potassium bitartrate, alsoknown as potassium hydrogen tartrate, also known as Cream of Tartar).

In some embodiments, the denaturing agent comprises about 20% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the denaturing agent comprisesabout 15% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, thedenaturing agent comprises about 10% w/w of the coating composition. Insome embodiments, the denaturing agent comprises about 9% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the denaturing agent comprisesabout 8% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, thedenaturing agent comprises about 7% w/w of the coating composition. Insome embodiments, the denaturing agent comprises about 6% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the denaturing agent comprisesabout 5% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, thedenaturing agent comprises about 4% w/w of the coating composition. Insome embodiments, the denaturing agent comprises about 3% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the denaturing agent comprisesabout 2% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, thedenaturing agent comprises about 1% w/w of the coating composition.

Solvents

In some embodiments, the composition further comprises a polar solvent.As used herein, a “polar solvent” is a solvent that is able to dissolvea dipolar or charged solute.

In some embodiments, the solvent is safe for human consumption or safefor contact with food. In some embodiments, the solvent is GRASaccording to the FDA.

In some embodiments, the polar solvent is water. In some embodiments,the polar solvent is an alcohol. In some embodiments, the polar solventis ethanol. In some embodiments, the polar solvent is a glycol. In someembodiments, the polar solvent is a combination of water and ethanol. Insome embodiments, the polar solvent is a combination of water andglycol. In some embodiments, the polar solvent is a combination ofethanol and glycol.

In some embodiments, the polar solvent has a pH from about 2 to about 7.In some embodiments, the polar solvent has a pH of about 7 or below. Insome embodiments, the polar solvent has a pH of about 6 or below. Insome embodiments, the polar solvent has a pH of about 5 or below. Insome embodiments, the polar solvent has a pH of about 4 or below. Insome embodiments, the polar solvent has a pH of about 3 or below.

In some embodiments, the polar solvent comprises about 90% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the polar solvent comprisesabout 85% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, the polarsolvent comprises about 84% w/w of the coating composition. In someembodiments, the polar solvent comprises about 83% w/w of the coatingcomposition. In some embodiments, the polar solvent comprises about 82%w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, the polar solventcomprises about 81% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments,the polar solvent comprises about 80% w/w of the coating composition. Insome embodiments, the polar solvent comprises about 75% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the polar solvent comprisesabout 70% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, the polarsolvent comprises about 60% w/w of the coating composition. In someembodiments, the polar solvent comprises about 50% w/w of the coatingcomposition.

Monomers

In certain embodiments, the sulfur-containing biological molecule in acoating composition disclosed herein is utilized as a photoinitiator incombination with a second photoinitiator. In certain embodiments, thepolypeptide in a coating composition disclosed herein is utilized as aphotoinitiator in combination with a second photoinitiator. In certainembodiments, the plant-derived sulfur containing compound in a coatingcomposition disclosed herein is utilized as a photoinitiator incombination with a second photoinitiator. In some embodiments, where thesulfur-containing biological molecule in a coating composition disclosedherein is utilized as a photoinitiator in combination with a secondphotoinitiator, the composition further comprises a monomer, anoligomer, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, where thepolypeptide in a coating composition disclosed herein is utilized as aphotoinitiator in combination with a second photoinitiator, thecomposition further comprises a monomer, an oligomer, or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, where the plant-derived sulfur-containingcompound in a coating composition disclosed herein is utilized as aphotoinitiator in combination with a second photoinitiator, thecomposition further comprises a monomer, an oligomer, or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, where the sulfur-containing biologicalmolecule composition is utilized as a self-linking component, thecomposition does not comprise a monomer, an oligomer, or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, where the polypeptide composition isutilized as a self-linking component, the composition does not comprisea monomer, an oligomer, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments,where the plant-derived sulfur-containing compound composition isutilized as a self-linking component, the composition does not comprisea monomer, an oligomer, or a combination thereof.

In certain embodiments, a coating composition disclosed herein comprisesat least one monomer, monomeric unit (e.g., in a polymer or oligomerformed from a mono-functional monomer), oligomer, or a combinationthereof. In one embodiment, a coating composition disclosed hereincomprises a combination of monomers, monomeric units, and/or oligomers.In certain embodiments, upon exposure to a source of actinic radiation,such as ultraviolet light, and in the presence of a photo-initiator,monomers described are rapidly polymerized to form oligomers comprisingmonomeric units of the monomers described. Thus, depending on the extentof polymerization, compositions herein may comprise momomeric units inthe form of monomers, oligomers, or monomers and oligomers.

Where the coating or coated article is intended to be safe for humanconsumption or safe for contact with food, any monomer utilized must besafe for human consumption or safe for contact with food. In someembodiments, the monomer is a GRAS monomer. In some embodiments, themonomer is trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA), ethoxylated TMPTA(TMPTEOA), tripropylene glycol diacrylate (TRPGDA), or a combinationthereof.

Where the coating or coated article is not intended to be safe for humanconsumption or safe for contact with food, any monomer may be utilized.In some embodiments, the monomer is: 2-phenoxyethyl acrylate, isobornylacrylate, acrylate ester derivatives, methacrylate ester derivatives,tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate, trimethylolpropane triacrylate,2-phenoxyethyl acrylate esters, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the monomer, monomeric unit, and/or oligomer ispresent in a coating composition disclosed herein in any suitableamount. In some embodiments, the monomer, monomeric unit, and/oroligomer comprises about 50% w/w of the coating composition. In someembodiments, the monomer, monomeric unit, and/or oligomer comprisesabout 40% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, themonomer, monomeric unit, and/or oligomer comprises about 30% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the monomer, monomeric unit,and/or oligomer comprises about 20% w/w of the coating composition. Insome embodiments, the monomer, monomeric unit, and/or oligomer comprisesabout 15% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, themonomer, monomeric unit, and/or oligomer comprises about 10% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the monomer, monomeric unit,and/or oligomer comprises about 9% w/w of the coating composition. Insome embodiments, the monomer, monomeric unit, and/or oligomer comprisesabout 8% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, themonomer, monomeric unit, and/or oligomer comprises about 7% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the monomer, monomeric unit,and/or oligomer comprises about 6% w/w of the coating composition. Insome embodiments, the monomer, monomeric unit, and/or oligomer comprisesabout 5% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, themonomer, monomeric unit, and/or oligomer comprises about 4% w/w of thecoating composition. In some embodiments, the monomer, monomeric unit,and/or oligomer comprises about 3% w/w of the coating composition. Insome embodiments, the monomer, monomeric unit, and/or oligomer comprisesabout 2% w/w of the coating composition. In some embodiments, themonomer, monomeric unit, and/or oligomer comprises about 1% w/w of thecoating composition.

In an embodiment, a coating composition disclosed herein comprises TMPTAin any suitable amount (e.g., from about 50% to about 1% w/w/). In anembodiment, a composition disclosed herein comprises TMPTEOA in anysuitable amount (e.g., from about 50% to about 1% w/w/). In anembodiment, a coating composition disclosed herein comprises TRPGDA inany suitable amount (e.g., from about 50% to about 1% w/w/).

Substrates

In some embodiments, the composition is coated onto a substrate orarticle. In some embodiments, substrate or article is a paper, aplastic, a metal, or a food article.

In some embodiments, the substrate or article is a paper. As usedherein, “paper” means any article made from plant fibers (e.g.,cellulose). In some embodiments, the paper is made from wood (e.g.,spruce, pine, fir, larch and hemlock, and hardwoods such as eucalyptus,aspen and birch). In some embodiments, the paper is made from papyrus.In some embodiments, the paper is made from cotton. In some embodiments,the paper is made from flax. In some embodiments, the paper is made fromabacá.

In some embodiments, the paper is paperboard. In some embodiments, thepaper is cardboard. In some embodiments, the paper is kraft paper. Insome embodiments, the paper is manila paper. In some embodiments, thepaper is sack paper.

In some embodiments, the substrate or article is a plastic. As usedherein, “plastic” means any article made from a synthetic orsemisynthetic organic amorphous solid material. In some embodiments, theplastic is made from the polymerization of acrylic monomers, polyestermonomers, silicone monomers, polyurethane monomers, or combinationsthereof. In some embodiments, the plastic is a thermoplastic. In someembodiments, the plastic is a thermoset.

In some embodiments, the substrate or article is a metal. In someembodiments, the article is a metal alloy. In some embodiments, themetal is sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, aluminum, nickel,copper, iron, silver, platinum, gold, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the substrate or article is food. As used herein,“food” means any article that is intended to be consumed by a mammal,especially a human. In some embodiments, the food is a fruit (e.g., anapple, a peach, a strawberry, a cherry). In some embodiments, the foodis a dried fruit. In some embodiments, the food is a vegetable (e.g., acucumber, a zucchini, a squash). In some embodiments, the food is adried vegetable. In some embodiments, the food is a meat (e.g., chicken,pork, beef, or fish). In some embodiments, the food is a candy. In someembodiments, the food is a baked good (e.g., a cookie, a bread, adoughnut, or a pastry).

Application

In some embodiments, the coating composition is applied onto the outsideof the substrate or article. In some embodiments, the coating isimpregnated into the substrate or article.

Compositions maybe applied to substrates by means of spraying, brushing,rolling, dipping, blade coating, curtain coating or a combinationthereof. For example, the means of spraying can include, but is notlimited to, the use of a High Volume Low Pressure (HVLP) sprayingsystems, air-assisted/airless spraying systems, or electrostaticspraying systems.

Curing

In some embodiments, regardless of the light source, the emissionspectra of the lamp must overlap the absorbance spectrum of thephoto-initiator.

In some embodiments, the curing comprises exposing the composition toactinic radiation having a wavelength from about 200 nm to about 400 nm.In some embodiments, the curing comprises exposing the composition toactinic radiation having a wavelength of about 280 nm.

Light sources used for UV curing include arc lamps, such as carbon arclamps, xenon arc lamps, mercury vapor lamps, tungsten halide lamps,lasers, the sun, sunlamps, and fluorescent lamps with ultra-violet lightemitting phosphors. Medium pressure mercury and high pressure xenonlamps have various emission lines at wavelengths which are absorbed bymost commercially available photo-initiators. In addition, mercury arclamps can be doped with iron or gallium. Alternatively, lasers aremonochromatic (single wavelength) and can be used to excitephoto-initiators which absorb at wavelengths that are too weak or notavailable when using arc lamps. For instance, medium pressure mercuryarc lamps have intense emission lines at 254 nm, 265 nm, 295 nm, 301 nm,313 nm, 366 nm, 405/408 nm, 436 nm, 546 nm, and 577/579 nm. Therefore, aphoto-initiator with an absorbance maximum at 350 nm may not be aefficiently excited using a medium pressure mercury arc lamp, but couldbe efficiently initiated using a 355 nm Nd:YVO4 (Vanadate) solid-statelasers. Commercial UV/Visible light sources with varied spectral outputin the range of 250-450 nm may be used directly for curing purposes;however wavelength selection can be achieved with the use of opticalbandpass or longpass filters. Therefore, as described herein, the usercan take advantage of the optimal photo-initiator absorbancecharacteristics.

In some embodiments, curing of a coating composition disclosed herein isachieved in any suitable amount of time. In further or alternativeembodiments, the time period for exposing a coating compositiondisclosed herein to actinic radiation is less than 2 minutes. In furtherembodiments, the time period for exposing a coating compositiondisclosed herein to actinic radiation is less than 1 minute. In furtherembodiments, the time the time period for exposing a coating compositiondisclosed herein to actinic radiation is less than 15 seconds.

A coating composition disclosed herein can optionally be exposed to twosources of actinic radiation (e.g., for any suitable amount of time). Infurther or alternative embodiments, the time between the first actinicradiation step and the second actinic radiation step is less than 2minutes. In further embodiments, the time between the first actinicradiation step and the second actinic radiation step is less than 1minute. In further embodiments, the time between the first actinicradiation step and the second actinic radiation step is less than 15seconds.

Further curing and applications methods are set forth in WO 2007/040493,which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In some embodiments, the temperature of the coating during curing doesnot exceed 100° C. In some embodiments, the temperature of the coatingduring curing does not exceed 90° C. In some embodiments, thetemperature of the coating during curing does not exceed 80° C. In someembodiments, the temperature of the coating during curing does notexceed 75° C. In some embodiments, the temperature of the coating duringcuring does not exceed 70° C. In some embodiments, the temperature ofthe coating during curing does not exceed 65° C. In some embodiments,the temperature of the coating during curing does not exceed 60° C. Insome embodiments, the temperature of the coating during curing does notexceed 55° C. In some embodiments, the temperature of the coating duringcuring does not exceed 50° C. In some embodiments, the temperature ofthe coating during curing does not exceed 45° C. In some embodiments,the temperature of the coating during curing does not exceed 40° C. Insome embodiments, the temperature of the coating during curing does notexceed 39° C. In some embodiments, the temperature of the coating duringcuring does not exceed 38° C. In some embodiments, the temperature ofthe coating during curing does not exceed 37° C.

Additional Components

Where the sulfur-containing biological molecule (e.g., polypeptide orplant-derived sulfur containing compound) is utilized as aphotoinitiator in combination with a second photoinitiator, in someembodiments, the composition further comprises a nano-filler, aphotoinitiator, a surfactant, a diluent, a pigment or pigmentdispersion, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, where thesulfur-containing biological molecule (e.g., polypeptide orplant-derived sulfur containing compound) is utilized as a self-linkingcomponent, the composition does not comprise a nano-filler, aphotoinitiator, a surfactant, a diluent, a pigment or pigmentdispersion, or a combination thereof.

Nano-fillers

Where the coating or coated article is intended to be safe for humanconsumption or safe for contact with food, any nano-filler utilized mustbe safe for human consumption or safe for contact with food.

In certain embodiments, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises a nano-filler. In various embodiments, nano-fillers compriseinsoluble inorganic particles, and/or insoluble organic particles. Theinorganic nano-fillers are generally metal oxides, although otherinorganic compounds can be used. Examples of inorganic nano-fillersinclude aluminum nitrides, aluminum oxides, antimony oxides, bariumsulfates, bismuth oxides, cadmium selenides, cadmium sulfides, calciumsulfates, cerium oxides, chromium oxides, copper oxides, indium tinoxides, iron oxides, lead chromates, nickel titanates, niobium oxides,rare earth oxides, silicas, silicon dioxides, silver oxides, tin oxides,titanium dioxides, zinc chromates, zinc oxides, zinc sulfides, zirconiumdioxides, and zirconium oxides. Alternatively, organic nano-fillers aregenerally polymeric materials ground into appropriate sizedparticulates. Examples of nanometer sized organic nano-fillers include,but are not limited to, nano-polytetrafluoroethylene, acrylatenanosphere colloids, methacrylate nanosphere colloids, and combinationsthereof, although micron sized fillers of the polytetrafluoroethylene,acrylate, methacrylate, and combinations thereof may be used.

In one embodiment, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises nano-alumina. Nano-alumina is composed of high purity aluminumoxide that is of nanometer size, including by way of example less than200 nm, and within the range of approximately 5-40 nanometer discretespherical particles. In a specific embodiment, a coating compositiondisclosed herein further comprises nano-silicon dioxide (nano-silica,e.g., C 155: 50/50 nanosilica and propoxylated glyceryl triacrylate).Representative nano-silicon dioxides include those sold under the nameNanocryl® C by Hanse Chemie (Geesthacht, Germany), such as Nanocryl® C350, Nanocryl® C 130, Nanocryl® C 140, Nanocryl® C 145, Nanocryl® C 146,Nanocryl® C 150, Nanocryl® C 153, Nanocryl® C 155, Nanocryl® C 165. In aspecific embodiment, Nanocryl® C 155 is included in the presentcompositions.

Nano-silicon dioxides having a nanometer size, including by way ofexample less than about 200 nm, and by way of further example, with anaverage particle size 5 to 40 nm, can be incorporated into compositions.Addition of nano-silicon dioxides may impart improved toughness,hardness and abrasion and scratch resistance.

Other materials that may be used as nano-fillers include: oxides,carbides, nitrides, borides, silicates, ferrites and titanates. Forinstance, examples of such nano-fillers are, but not limited to,nano-zirconium oxide, nano-zirconium dioxides, nano-silicon carbide,nano-silicon nitride, nano-sialon (silicon aluminum oxynitride),nano-aluminum nitrides, nano-bismuth oxides, nano-cerium oxides,nano-copper oxides, nano-iron oxides, nano-nickel titanates,nano-niobium oxides, nano-rare earth oxides, nano-silver oxides,nano-tin oxides, and nano-titanium oxides. These materials haverelatively high mechanical strength at high temperatures.

Alternatively, nano-fillers used in the composition described hereininclude amorphous silicon dioxide prepared with polyethylene wax,synthetic amorphous silica with organic surface treatment, untreatedamorphous silicon dioxide, alkyl quaternary bentonite, colloidal silica,acrylated colloidal silica, alumina, zirconia, zinc oxide, niobia,titania aluminum nitride, silver oxide, cerium oxides, and combinationsthereof. The silicon dioxides are chosen from a group consisting of bothsynthetic and natural silicon dioxides with surface treatments includingpolyethylene wax or waxes and IRGANOX® from Ciba Specialty Chemicals 540White Plains Road, Tarrytown, N.Y., U.S.A.

The average particle size of nano-fillers in the compositions describedherein includes by way of example less than about 20 μm, and by way offurther example, with an average particle size 1 to 10 μm discreteparticles; whereas, the average particle size of nano-filler particlesincludes by way of example less than about 200 nm, and by way of furtherexample, with an average particle size 5 to 50 nm discrete particles. Inan embodiment, nano-filler particles have an average diameter of 10, 20,30, or 40 nm. Furthermore, in another embodiment, the particle sizedistribution of nano-filler particles ranges from 1 nm to 60 nm, such asfrom 5 nm to 30 nm.

Nano-fillers are present in a coating composition disclosed herein in anamount ranging from 10 to 60% wt/wt, such as from 25 to 55% wt/wt, 30 to50% wt/wt, or 30 to 40% wt/wt. In an embodiment, a coating compositiondisclosed herein comprises from 31-36% wt/wt of nanofiller.

Photo-initiators

In a further or alternative embodiment, a coating composition disclosedherein further comprises at least one photo-initiator. In a further oralternative embodiment, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises at least two photo-initiators. In further or alternativeembodiment, a coating composition disclosed herein further comprises atleast three photo-initiators.

Generally, photo-initiators are added to initiate rapid polymerizationof monomers in the composition upon exposure to a source of actinicradiation, such as ultraviolet light. The photo-initiator can be matchedto the spectral properties of the UV source, such as medium pressuremercury arc lights which produce intense UV-C (200-280 nm) radiation,doped mercury discharge lamps which produce UV-A (315-400 nm) radiation,or UV-B (280-315 nm) radiation depending on the dopant, or combinationof lamp types. Depending on the photo-initiator or combination ofphoto-initiators in the composition, varying UV source(s) may beemployed.

Any suitable type of photo-initiator may be used in the composition,including those categorized as free radicals. The photo-initiator may bein liquid or solid form.

Furthermore, combinations of photo-initiators may be used whichencompass different spectral properties of the UV sources used toinitiate polymerization.

Where the coating or coated article is intended to be safe for humanconsumption or safe for contact with food, any photoinitiator utilizedmust be safe for human consumption or safe for contact with food. Insome embodiments, the photoinitiator is a GRAS photoinitiator. In someembodiments, the photoinitiator is ESACURE ONE.

The photo-initiator may be selected from a group consisting of diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide, benzophenone, ESACURE® KTO,IRGACURE® 184, IRGACURE® 500, DARACUR® 1173, Lucirin® TPO,1-hydroxycyclohexyl phenyl ketone,2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenyl-propan-1-one, 2,4,6,-trimethylbenzophenone,4-methylbenzophenone, oligo(2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-(4-(1-methylvinyl)phenyl)propanone), andcombinations thereof. In addition, the photo-initiators may be selectedfrom a group consisting of phosphine oxide type photoinitiators,diphenyl (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide, benzophenone,1-hydroxycyclohexyl phenyl ketone,2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenyl-propan-1-one (DAROCUR® 1173 from CibaSpecialty Chemicals 540 White Plains Road, Tarrytown, N.Y., U.S.A.)),2,4,6-trimethylbenzophenone and 4-methylbenzophenone, ESACURE® KTO 46(Lamberti S.p.A., Gallarate (VA), Italy),oligo(2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-(4-(1-methylvinyl)phenyl)propanone), amineacrylates, thioxanthones, benzyl methyl ketal, and mixtures thereof.Furthermore, the photo-initiators may be selected from2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenyl-propan-1-one (DAROCUR® 1173 from CibaSpecialty Chemicals 540 White Plains Road, Tarrytown, N.Y., U.S.A.),phosphine oxide type photoinitiators, IRGACURE (D 500, 819, or 1700(Ciba Specialty Chemicals 540 White Plains Road, Tarrytown, N.Y.,U.S.A.), amine acrylates, thioxanthones, benzyl methyl ketal, ESACURE®ONE, and mixtures thereof.

Other photo-initiators which are suitable for use in the practice of thepresent invention include, but are not limited to,1-phenyl-2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-propanone, oligo {2-hydroxy-2methyl-1-4-(methylvinyl)phenylpropanone)}, 2-hydroxy 2-methyl-1-phenylpropan-1 one, bis(2,6-dimethoxybenzoyl)-2,4,4-trimethylpentyl phosphineoxide, 1-hydroxycyclohexyl phenyl ketone and benzophenone as well asmixtures thereof. Still other useful photoinitiators include, forexample, bis(n,5,2,4-cyclopentadien-1-yl)-bis2,6-difluoro-3-(1H-pyrol-1-yl) phenyl titanium and2-benzyl-2-N,N-dimethyl amino-1-(4-morpholinophenyl)-1-butanone. Thesecompounds are IRGACURE® 784 and IRGACURE® 369, respectively (both fromCiba Specialty Chemicals 540 White Plains Road, Tarrytown, N.Y., U.S.A.)While, still other useful photoinitiators include, for example,2-methyl-1-4(methylthio)-2-morpholinopropan-1-one, 4-(2-hydroxy)phenyl-2-hydroxy-2-(methylpropyl)ketone, 1-hydroxy cyclohexyl phenylketone benzophenone, (cyclopentadienyl)(1-methylethyl)benzene-ironhexafluorophosphate, 2,2-dimemoxy-2-phenyl-1-acetophen-one2,4,6-trimethyl benzoyl-diphenyl phosphine oxide, benzoic acid,4-(dimethyl amino)-ethyl ether, as well as mixtures thereof.

In a further or alternative embodiment, a coating composition disclosedherein further comprises at least one photo-initiator comprisingce-hydroxyketone, such as 1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl-phenyl-ketone. In anotheror alternative embodiment, a coating composition disclosed hereinfurther comprises at least one photo-initiator comprising benzophenone.In another or alternative embodiment, a coating composition disclosedherein further comprises at least one photo-initiator comprising abenzoyl diaryl phosphine, such as2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)diphenylphosphine oxide.

In an embodiment, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises a combination of photo-initiators. In an embodiment, a coatingcomposition disclosed herein further comprises IRGACURE® 184 andIRGACURE® 500. In another embodiment, a coating composition disclosedherein further comprises IRGACURE® 184, IRGACURE® 500, and Lucirin® TPO.

The photo-initiator(s) are present in a coating composition disclosedherein in any suitable amount including, e.g., an amount ranging from0.5-10% wt/wt, such as from 1 to 9% wt/wt, 3 to 8% wt/wt, or 4 to 6%wt/wt. In another embodiment, a coating composition disclosed hereinfurther comprises a combination of photo-initiators, wherein eachphoto-initiator is present in an amount ranging from 0.5-5% wt/wt, suchas from 1 to 4% wt/wt or 2 to 3% wt/wt. In yet another embodiment, acoating composition disclosed herein further comprises IRGACURE® 184 inan amount ranging from 2 to 6% wt/wt, such as about 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6%wt/wt and IRGACURE® 500 in an amount ranging from 0.5 to 4% wt/wt, suchas about 0.5, 1, 2, 3, or 4% wt/wt.

In an embodiment, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises a pigment (e.g., a pigment dispersion). In furtherembodiments, such compositions optionally comprise a secondphoto-initiator comprising benzoyl diaryl phosphine oxide. Although thepresence of pigments can absorb radiation both in the UV and visiblelight regions and reduce the effectiveness of some types ofphoto-initiators, phosphine oxide type photo-initiators are effective inpigmented composition, including, by way of example only, black andUV-curable coating materials. Phosphine oxides also find use asphoto-initiators for white coatings. In certain embodiments, a coatingcomposition disclosed herein further comprises a pigment dispersion anda photo-initiator comprising 2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)diphenylphosphineoxide, such as Lucirin® TPO.

In an embodiment, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises a photo-initiator comprising benzoyl diaryl phosphine oxidethat is present in an amount ranging from 0.5-5% wt/wt, such as from 1to 4% wt/wt or 2 to 3% wt/wt. hi an embodiment, the photo-initiatorcomprising benzoyl diaryl phosphine oxide may be present in thecomposition in an amount of about 0.5, 1, 2, 3, or 4% wt/wt.

Surfactants

Where the coating or coated article is intended to be safe for humanconsumption or safe for contact with food, any surfactant utilized mustbe safe for human consumption or safe for contact with food.

In some embodiments, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises at least one surfactant. Examples of surfactants include, butare not limited to, polymers such as polystyrene, polypropylene,polyesters, styrene-methacrylic acid type copolymers, styrene-acrylicacid type copolymers, polytetrafluoroethylene,polychlorotrifluoroethylene, polyethylenetetrafluoroethylene typecopolymers, polyaspartic acid, polyglutamic acid, and polyglutamicacid-γ-methyl esters, and modifiers such as silane coupling agents andalcohols. Additional surfactants include olefins, such as polyethylene,polypropylene, polybutadiene, and the like; vinyls, such aspolyvinylchloride, polyvinylesters, polystyrene; acrylic homopolymersand copolymers; phenolics; amino resins; alkyds, epoxies, siloxanes,nylons, polyurethanes, phenoxys, polycarbonates, polysulfones,polyesters (optionally chlorinated), polyethers, acetals, polyimides,and polyoxyethylenes. Further exemplary surfactants include cross-linkedas well as non-crosslinked acrylates that are compatible with UV curingcompositions, such as crosslinkable silicone acrylate.

Exemplary surfactants include those manufactured under the name TEGO®Rad by Degussa AG (Essen, Germany) and include TEGO® Rad 2100, 2200,2250, 2300, 2500, 2600, 2650, and 2700. In various embodiments, thesurfactant(s) are present in a compositions in any suitable amountincluding, e.g., in an amount ranging from 0.01-2.0% wt/wt, such asabout 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 1.0, 1.2,1.4, 1.6, 1.8, or 2.0% wt/wt.

Diluents

Where the coating or coated article is intended to be safe for humanconsumption or safe for contact with food, any diluent utilized must besafe for human consumption or safe for contact with food.

In some embodiments, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises at least one diluent. In an embodiment, the diluent isappropriate for diluting oligomers, e.g., as a diluting monomeric unit.In another embodiment, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises a reactive diluent that produces polymers through theformation of free radicals when exposed to a source of actinicradiation, such as ultraviolet light.

Representative diluents include, but are not limited to, isobornylacrylate, isodecyl acrylate, trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA),di-trimethylolpropane triacrylate (Di-TMPTA), propoxylated TMPTA(PO6-TMPTA), and combinations or monomeric units thereof. In certainembodiments, diluents that may be employed in the present compositionare also categorized as mono-functional or multi-functional monomericunits, described and listed herein.

In certain embodiments, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises at least one diluent in an amount ranging from 2-20% wt/wt,such as from 5 to 18% wt/wt, 7 to 15% wt/wt, or 10 to 12% wt/wt. In anembodiment, a coating composition disclosed herein further comprisesisobornyl acrylate in an amount ranging from 2-20% wt/wt, such as from 5to 18% wt/wt, 7 to 15% wt/wt, or 10 to 12% wt/wt.

Pigments and Pigment Dispersions

Where the coating or coated article is intended to be safe for humanconsumption or safe for contact with food, any pigment or pigmentdispersion utilized must be safe for human consumption or safe forcontact with food.

In some embodiments, a coating composition disclosed herein optionallycomprises at least one pigment or pigment dispersion. In variousembodiments, pigments, are insoluble white, black, or colored material,e.g., PC 9003 (white bonded pigment).

Various organic pigments are used with a composition described herein,including, but not limited to, carbon black, azo-pigment, phthalocyaninepigment, thioindigo pigment, anthraquinone pigment, flavanthronepigment, indanthrene pigment, anthrapyridine pigment, pyranthronepigment, perylene pigment, perynone pigment and quinacridone pigment.

Various inorganic pigments are used with a composition described herein,for example, but not limited to, titanium dioxide, aluminum oxide, zincoxide, zirconium oxide, iron oxides: red oxide, yellow oxide and blackoxide, Ultramarine blue, Prussian blue, chromium oxide and chromiumhydroxide, barium sulfate, tin oxide, calcium, titanium dioxide (rutileand anatase titanium), sulfate, talc, mica, silicas, dolomite, zincsulfide, antimony oxide, zirconium dioxide, silicon dioxide, cadmiumsulfide, cadmium selenide, lead chromate, zinc chromate, nickeltitanate, clays such as kaolin clay, muscovite and sericite.

In various embodiments, a coating composition disclosed hereinoptionally comprises at least one pigment or pigment dispersion in anamount ranging from 1-12% wt/wt, such as from 3 to 10% wt/wt, or 5 to 9%wt/wt.

Miscellaneous

In some embodiments, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises a natural gum, a flavoring agent, a dye, a de-foaming agent,or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises a natural gum. In some embodiments, the gum is arabic gum,karaya gum, locust bean gum, tragacanth gum, carrageens gum, guar gum,xanthan gum, scleroglucan gum.

In some embodiments, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises a flavoring agent. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent ismaltodextrin or an oil. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent is anessential oil. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent is acacia syrup,acesulfame K, alitame, anise, apple, aspartame, banana, bavarian cream,berry, black currant, butterscotch, calcium citrate, camphor, caramel,cherry, cherry cream, chocolate, cinnamon, bubble gum, citrus, citruspunch, citrus cream, cotton candy, cocoa, cola, cool cherry, coolcitrus, cyclamate, cylamate, dextrose, eucalyptus, eugenol, fructose,fruit punch, ginger, glycyrrhetinate, glycyrrhiza syrup, grape,grapefruit, honey, isomalt, lemon, lime, lemon cream, monoammoniumglyrrhizinate, maltol, mannitol, maple, marshmallow, menthol, mintcream, mixed berry, neohesperidine DC, neotame, orange, pear, peach,peppermint, peppermint cream, raspberry, root beer, rum, saccharin,safrole, sorbitol, spearmint, spearmint cream, strawberry, strawberrycream, stevia, sucralose, sucrose, sodium saccharin, saccharin,aspartame, acesulfame potassium, mannitol, talin, sylitol, sucralose,sorbitol, swiss cream, tagatose, tangerine, thaumatin, tutti fruitti,vanilla, walnut, watermelon, wild cherry, wintergreen, xylitol, or anythereof.

In some embodiments, a coating composition disclosed herein furthercomprises an anti-foaming agent. As used herein, an “anti-foaming agent”is an agent that reduces foaming. Where the coating or coated article isintended to be GRAS, any anti-foaming agent utilized must be GRAS.Exemplary anti-foaming agents include silicon emulsions, sorbitansesquoleate, vegetable oils, or combinations thereof. In someembodiments, the anti-foaming agent is canola oil, grapeseed oil, oliveoil, sunflower oil, corn oil, or a combination thereof.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown anddescribed herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art thatsuch embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerousvariations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilledin the art without departing from the invention. It should be understoodthat various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention describedherein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended thatthe following claims define the scope of the invention and that methodsand structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents becovered thereby.

1. A method for preparing a coated article, comprising: (a) coating asubstrate with a composition comprising: (i) a polypeptide, wherein thepolypeptide is selected from: albumin, transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme,cysteine, or combinations thereof, and (ii) a denaturing agent; and (b)curing and cross-linking the composition by exposing the composition toshortwave actinic radiation to form a coated article; wherein thetemperature of the composition during the curing process is less thanabout 70° C.; and wherein the composition does not coagulate during thecuring process.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the compositionfurther comprises a polar solvent.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein thepolar solvent is water.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein thecomposition is safe for human consumption, safe for contact with food,or a combination thereof.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the curingcomprises exposing the composition to actinic radiation having awavelength from about 200 nm to about 400 nm.
 6. The method of claim 1,wherein the curing comprises exposing the composition to actinicradiation having a wavelength of about 280 nm.
 7. The method of claim 1,wherein the composition further comprises an acid.
 8. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the composition further comprises:2,3-dihydroxysuccinic acid; ethanoic acid; 3-hydroxypentanedioic acid;salts thereof; partial salts thereof; or combinations thereof.
 9. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the polar solvent has a pH of about 7 orbelow.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition furthercomprises a natural gum, a flavoring agent, a dye, a de-foaming agent,or a combination thereof.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein thecomposition further comprises maltodextrin, an oil, or a combinationthereof.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the substrate is paper,plastic, metal, food, or a combination thereof.
 13. The method of claim1, wherein the polypeptide is provided in the form of a powder.
 14. Acoated article comprising: (a) a substrate; and (b) a polypeptidecomposition, wherein the polypeptide composition comprises a polypeptideselected from: albumin, transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, cysteine, orcombinations thereof coating the substrate; and wherein the polypeptidecomposition is cross-linked after coating the substrate; and wherein thepolypeptide composition is not coagulated.
 15. The coated article ofclaim 14, wherein the polypeptide composition further comprises a polarsolvent.
 16. The coated article of claim 14, wherein the polypeptidecomposition further comprises water.
 17. The coated article of claim 14,wherein the polypeptide composition further comprises a denaturingagent.
 18. The coated article of claim 14, wherein the polypeptidecomposition is safe for human consumption, safe for contact with food,or a combination thereof.
 19. The coated article of claim 14, whereincross-linking the polypeptide composition comprises exposing thepolypeptide composition to shortwave actinic radiation.
 20. The coatedarticle of claim 14, wherein cross-linking the polypeptide compositioncomprises exposing the polypeptide composition to actinic radiationhaving a wavelength from about 200 nm to about 400 nm.
 21. The coatedarticle of claim 14, wherein cross-linking the polypeptide compositioncomprises exposing the polypeptide composition to actinic radiationhaving a wavelength of about 280 nm.
 22. The coated article of claim 14,wherein the polypeptide composition further comprises an acid.
 23. Thecoated article of claim 14, wherein the polypeptide composition furthercomprises: 2,3-dihydroxysuccinic acid; ethanoic acid;3-hydroxypentanedioic acid; salts thereof; partial salts thereof; orcombinations thereof.
 24. The coated article of claim 14, wherein thepolar solvent has a pH of about 7 or below.
 25. The coated article ofclaim 14, wherein the polypeptide composition further comprises anatural gum, a flavoring agent, a dye, a de-foaming agent, or acombination thereof.
 26. The coated article of claim 14, wherein thepolypeptide composition further comprises maltodextrin, an oil, or acombination thereof.
 27. The coated article of claim 14, wherein thesubstrate is impregnated with the composition.
 28. The coated article ofclaim 14, wherein the substrate is paper, plastic, metal, food, or acombination thereof.
 29. The coated article of claim 14, wherein thepolypeptide is in the form of a powder.
 30. A method for preparing acoated article, comprising: (a) coating a substrate with a compositioncomprising: (i) a monomer, an oligomer, or a combination thereof, and(ii) a polypeptide, wherein the polypeptide is selected from: albumin,transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, cysteine, or combinations thereof; and(b) curing and cross-linking the composition by exposing the compositionto shortwave actinic radiation to form a coated substrate; wherein thetemperature of the composition during the curing process is less thanabout 70° C.; and wherein the composition does not coagulate during thecuring process.
 31. The method of claim 30, wherein the composition issafe for human consumption, safe for contact with food, or a combinationthereof.
 32. The method of claim 30, wherein the monomer istrimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA), ethoxylated TMPTA (TMPTEOA),tripropylene glycol diacrylate (TRPGDA), or a combination thereof. 33.The method of claim 30, wherein the oligomer is epoxy diacrylate. 34.The method of claim 30, wherein the composition further comprises: aphotoinitiator, a diluent, a surfactant, a pigment dispersion, a naturalgum, a dye, a de-foaming agent, or a combination thereof.
 35. The methodof claim 30, wherein the composition further comprises maltodextrin, anoil, or a combination thereof.
 36. The method of claim 30, wherein thecuring comprises exposing the composition to actinic radiation having awavelength from about 200 nm to about 400 nm.
 37. The method of claim30, wherein the curing comprises exposing the composition to actinicradiation having a wavelength of about 280 nm.
 38. The method of claim30, wherein coating comprises impregnating the substrate with thecomposition.
 39. The method of claim 30, wherein the substrate is paper,plastic, metal, food, or a combination thereof.
 40. The method of claim30, wherein the polypeptide is in the form of a powder.
 41. A coatedarticle comprising: (a) a substrate; and (b) a composition coating thesubstrate comprising: (i) a cross-linked monomer, oligomer, or acombination thereof, and (ii) a polypeptide selected from albumin,transferrin, ovomucin, lysozyme, cysteine, or combinations thereof;wherein the composition is cross-linked after coating the substrate, andwherein the composition is not coagulated.
 42. The coated article ofclaim 41, wherein the composition is safe for human consumption, safefor contact with food, or a combination thereof.
 43. The coated articleof claim 41, wherein the monomer is trimethylolpropane triacrylate(TMPTA), ethoxylated TMPTA (TMPTEOA), tripropylene glycol diacrylate(TRPGDA), or a combination thereof.
 44. The coated article of claim 41,wherein the composition further comprises: a diluent, a surfactant, apigment dispersion, a natural gum, a flavoring agent, a dye, ade-foaming agent, or a combination thereof.
 45. The coated article ofclaim 41, wherein the composition further comprises maltodextrin, anoil, or a combination thereof.
 46. The coated article of claim 41,wherein cross-linking the composition comprises exposing the compositionto shortwave actinic radiation.
 47. The coated article of claim 41,wherein cross-linking the composition comprises exposing the compositionto actinic radiation having a wavelength from about 200 nm to about 400nm.
 48. The coated article of claim 41, wherein cross-linking thecomposition comprises exposing the composition to actinic radiationhaving a wavelength of about 280 nm.
 49. The coated article of claim 41,wherein the substrate is impregnated with the composition.
 50. Thecoated article of claim 41, wherein the substrate is paper, plastic,metal, food, or a combination thereof.
 51. The coated article of claim41, wherein the polypeptide is provided in the form of a powder.